Hardlines Distribution Alliance and North American Tool Suppliers have announced plans to merge into a single organization effective Jan. 1.
The deal will combine HDA’s membership of more than 50 distributors and 400 manufacturer partners with NATS’ 19 distributors and more than 60 suppliers. Group officials added that the move would streamline membership under the HDA umbrella, combine their respective meetings and conferences, and provide vendors and members with “greater access to key decision makers in the independent channel.”
“Both NATS and HDA’s dedication to creating value for member distributors and manufacturers will help both organizations expand their respective product offerings,” HDA CEO Steve Synnott said in the announcement. “We are confident that by joining forces, we will create a stronger, more dynamic organization by preserving the best of both cultures and empowering our combined teams to succeed.”
“Having led the NATS organization since its inception more than 15 years ago, I quickly recognized that our values are closely aligned, and our shared philosophy can allow us to bring even greater value to the industries we serve,” added NATS President Sandor Epstein.
